Meet the Team

Victoria Clarke – Chair of Governors

I became a Parent Governor in March 2019 and now serve as Chair of Governors. I have worked for Leeds City Council (LCC) since 2004. Roles have included Commissioning Manager (overseeing development, budget and performance of drug treatment services for Leeds), and Project Manager, working on service transformation across health and social care. This involves strategic leadership, planning and development, performance management, data analysis and strong communication and negotiation skills. I am Chair of LCC’s Women’s Staff Network – Women’s Voice, aiming to make LCC the best place to work for women and with other staff networks to ensure that all staff feel valued. I am also a trustee for Basis Yorkshire and Chair of their Quality and Performance Working Group. Committed to the role of Governor and improving outcomes for children, I am passionate about ensuring all children have the best environment and opportunities for learning, specifically around encouraging girls to access STEM subjects.

Elizabeth Mitchell - Vice Chair of Governors

I have a strong background in Early Years Education, having done extensive training in safeguarding since 2015. I currently work at Relational Children’s Social Work Services as a PA to the Director. This is my first role as a governor and my eldest child currently attends Benton Park. I have a vested interest in the success of the school as my youngest will hopefully be attending within the next few years as well. I hope to use my knowledge and experience to help and support the school in any way that I can and to aid in the success of the students.

Helen Williams

Paul Brook

I’m Headteacher at both Castle Hall Academy and Old Bank Academy in Mirfield and a co‑opted governor at Benton Park. My educational beliefs are rooted in high expectations, kindness and the simple belief that every young person can achieve with the right support. I’ve always focused on strengthening culture, celebrating consistency, raising standards, and building confidence and aspiration from the very start of school. At Benton Park, my governor focus is SEND & Inclusion. I’m committed to removing barriers, championing equitable access to the curriculum and working closely with families and colleagues so that every student feels known, valued and ready to succeed. Outside school, I’m happiest spending time with family and cheering from a touchline, or walking the canals and trails around Huddersfield.

Ben McGregor

I am proud to serve as a Governor at Benton Park School, a school with strong personal significance to me as both a former pupil and a parent. I have over 25 years' experience in education, including 19 years at Bingley Grammar School, where I held curriculum and pastoral leadership roles and led Initial Teacher Training. I am currently Head of Initial Teacher Training at Bradford Birth to 19 SCITT, working with schools across the region to develop high-quality, research-informed teachers. Alongside this, I am Vice Chair of Governors at Rawdon St Peter's Primary School and a member of the National Association of School-Based Teacher Training (NASBTT) Member Council. I am passionate about education and committed to providing effective support and challenge to help Benton Park continue to thrive.

David Naylor

I am a newly elected Parent Governor with two daughters currently attending Benton Park in Year 7 and Year 12. My professional background is in executive technology leadership. I am currently the CEO of Naylor Technology Limited, a consultancy working with high-growth companies on strategy, application development and AI, and the Founder of Aegis Endurance, an AI-driven sports coaching platform. Prior to establishing my own ventures, I spent over a decade as a Chief Technology Officer, leading digital transformation and scaling large technology organisations. My experience centres on building and empowering teams, strategic planning, data security and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence. I look forward to applying these skills to the Governing Body, specifically offering guidance on how the school can safely and effectively integrate new technologies. I am particularly focused on supporting our teaching staff by exploring how AI can reduce administrative burdens and ensuring our curriculum equips students with the essential digital literacy and resilience they need for a rapidly evolving future.

Niamh Hester

Nicholas Skilton

I’m Headteacher of Benton Park School and serve as a Governor by virtue of my role. My leadership is rooted in high expectations, kindness and the belief that every young person can achieve with the right support. At Benton Park I focus on strengthening culture and curriculum so that excellent behaviour, consistent teaching and purposeful assessment help every student to thrive. Inclusion and safeguarding run through everything we do, and I work closely with families and colleagues to remove barriers, widen opportunity and build confidence and aspiration. Guided by our vision — “Together we belong, develop character and achieve excellence.” — I’m committed to making Benton Park a school our community is proud of. Outside school, I spend most of my free time with family and watching Aston Villa Football Club.

Richard McManus